Federal Member for Hume Angus Taylor has encouraged shoppers to support local Hume producers this Christmas. “In my first year as an MP, I’ve been lucky enough to meet many of the local families behind some of the best food this country produces.

“We have some of the biggest pork producers in Australia here in Hume, yet many people are unaware that more than two-thirds of ham sold in Australia is made from imported pork.

“If you want to make sure your Christmas ham is 100 per cent Australian pork, buy a bone-in ham from a local producer.”

Mr Taylor took time out to size up the hams at Gunning butchery where they are filling 250 ham orders for Christmas. Hams are smoked on site, supplied by a Cowra processor and sourced mainly out of Young. “Ham is a big part of my family’s traditional hot Christmas lunch,” he said.

“One of the best ways to ensure competition and the security of our local small businesses is to support them at the till.

“This Christmas, buy some Hume produce for the Christmas table – cherries, stone fruits, local meats and wines - and support those who are providing employment opportunities in our towns and villages.

“On a personal note, Christmas for my family is pretty uncomplicated. We celebrate it with family and food - and we like our Christmas traditions, be it a jostle over who carves the meat or a game of cricket or tip-footy.

“I would like to take the opportunity to wish everyone a safe and peaceful Christmas. Enjoy being with your family and friends and I look forward to working with you in 2015.”

Caption: “We have some of the biggest pork producers in Australia in the Hume electorate and I encourage shoppers to buy some Hume produce for the Christmas table,” Mr Taylor said. Pictured with Gunning Meats apprentice butcher Andrew Robinson.